Jellis Craig. Big Hill is an extraordinary 12 acre property sitting at the gateway to the Yarra Valley.
Perched overlooking the valley is where Hamish Knox (son of Alistair Knox, environmental architect) builder, designer and Loretta Childs landscape designer and horticulturist have created an oasis where home and garden are a haven for all to enjoy.
Hamish ' Everything has story. The entire property has been built from quality reclaimed materials and eclectic found objects.'
There is a spirit of re-imagination, where craftsmanship, artistry and sustainability come together to create something unique. Big Hill stands as testament to a lifetime of thoughtful collecting, recycling and reinvention. Blending the past, present and future, the buildings, garden and outer landscape are seamlessly intertwined with breathtaking 360 degree views of Mt Macedon, Kinglake Ranges, Warburton Ranges and the entire Yarra Valley.
Through the vision and skill of Hamish and Loretta, the property has evolved into a distinctive, handcrafted environment where every element has been considered, shaped and harmonised within its natural setting. A perfect melding together of reclaimed materials is showcased in the main kitchen where slate benchtops (formally SEC insulating boards), cabinetry made from doors purchased from Raheen (Pratt family residence) and a custom-made 4mt red gum kitchen table and bench seats sit within the and enormous bay window rescued from Edendale farm.
A series of independent studios, hideaways and workspaces are scattered throughout the 12 acre grounds, each with its own personality yet connected through an intentional use of unique materials that create a rich sense of texture and authenticity.
The landscape of garden rooms Loretta has created complements and enhances not only the structures but incorporates many unique sculptures and maritime paraphenalia. A carefully selected native plant collection dominate, with a nod to a few original exotics from past owners. The garden is fully supported by drinking quality bore water reticulated throughout the property.
Originally conceived as haven for artists and artisans, each building adapting to a variety of art forms, Big Hill could work just as brilliantly as a space for teaching any of the arts, a wellbeing centre, retreat, accommodation/hospitality venue... in fact its future is limited only by the imagination of the lucky purchaser.
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